In the Municipality of New Lucena, Iloilo, a transformative program has taken root, bringing hope, progress, and a sense of empowerment to its 24,314 residents. The Integrated Participatory Accountability and Transparency towards Sustainable Integrated Area Development (IPAT-SIAD), spearheaded by SEA Inc. and championed by the visionary leadership of Mayor Liecel Mondejar-Seville, has reshaped the community’s landscape in ways that are as profound as they are inspiring.

A Structure Built for Lasting Change

Structural improvements are at the heart of the program, laying the groundwork for sustainable development:

• Strengthened Civil Society Organizations (CSOs): Nine new organizations have emerged, six of which are officially registered, while three are on their way. These groups serve as the backbone of community-driven initiatives.
• Revitalized Barangay Development Councils (BDCs): All nine barangays now have reconstituted BDCs and newly established Planning, Implementation, Monitoring, and Evaluation (PIME) Teams. This ensures inclusivity and effectiveness in governance.
• Strategic Integration of Infrastructure: The Bilidan Evacuation Center is now a cornerstone of the Barangay Strategic Plan, ensuring disaster preparedness.
• Collaborative Partnerships: Partnerships with institutions like the Provincial Government, DSWD, and local schools have amplified the reach and impact of IPAT-SIAD.
• Access to Critical Machinery: Through partnerships, equipment such as shredders, bio-fertilizer machines, and tractors now bolster agricultural productivity and environmental sustainability.

Financial Empowerment on a Grand Scale

Economic upliftment is a key pillar of IPAT-SIAD. Residents and organizations have accessed millions in funding and resources:

• ₱3.1 million for farm-to-market roads and canal lining via BADA IA.
• ₱1.3 million from Life Bank Foundation for the Cabilauan Farmers Association.
• Solo parents received ₱220,000 through SLP-DSWD, providing crucial livelihood support.
• Equipment and tools worth ₱5.3 million for agriculture and a ₱4 million multi-purpose center for Bilidan showcase strategic investments driving growth.

Even innovative programs like the Trisikad Rent-to-Own initiative bring dignity and sustainability to transportation workers, demonstrating the program’s creativity in addressing diverse needs.

Transforming Minds and Hearts

The inner conditioning component of IPAT-SIAD is where its transformative power shines brightest.

• 30 Inner Conditioning Workshop (ICW) graduates now embody the program’s values of self-awareness and leadership. Weekly reflections have led to significant personal and professional growth.
• Graduates serve as resource persons, spreading the ripple effects of their learnings to the broader community.

The impact goes beyond New Lucena. ICW reflections have inspired individuals globally, with SEA Inc.’s website attracting thousands of visitors daily. Decision-makers from diverse fields find valuable insights into mental health and self-awareness, bridging local action with global relevance.

Emerging Impacts: The Seeds of the Future

IPAT-SIAD’s ripple effects are visible in emerging initiatives that promise to sustain its momentum:

• Expanded programs for vulnerable groups, including solo parents, youth, elderly, and persons with disabilities (PWDs), are backed by significant funding allocations.
• Strategic plans adopted by local churches and barangays emphasize long-term sustainability.
• Kakanin businesses and post-harvest facilities underscore a focus on entrepreneurship and agriculture.

Moreover, recognition through the Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) and the enhanced participation of CSOs in municipal planning signal a new era of inclusive governance.

Touching 65% of the Population

Remarkably, the IPAT-SIAD initiative has reached nearly 65% of New Lucena’s population, equipping them with knowledge, resources, and opportunities. From farmers accessing state-of-the-art equipment to vulnerable sectors benefiting from livelihood programs, the program is a lifeline that leaves no one behind.

Mayor Liecel Mondejar-Seville’s leadership stands as a cornerstone of this transformation. Her commitment to sustainability excellence has fostered a culture of accountability, inclusivity, and innovation.

A Model Worth Emulating

New Lucena’s journey under IPAT-SIAD is more than a success story; it is a testament to what is possible when good governance, empowered communities, and strategic partnerships converge. With structural reforms, financial empowerment, inner transformation, and emerging initiatives driving change, New Lucena has become a beacon of sustainable development—a model for towns and cities striving to uplift their people.

As New Lucena reaps the rewards of this program, it is clear that the seeds of transformation planted today will yield a harvest of progress and prosperity for generations to come.